July 6, 2025, 2:11 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
Is your cat suddenly going to the litter box frequently without success? Many owners underestimate this behavior. It can be a life-threatening emergency: a urethral blockage. PETBOOK explains what owners need to know.
Cats are masters at hiding pain. Therefore, most owners don’t think much of it when their cat goes to the litter box more often than usual. However, if only droplets or no urine at all end up in the litter, it’s a clear warning sign. A particularly dangerous but often underestimated problem is a urethral blockage—a medical emergency that can become life-threatening in a short time if left untreated. This condition is not uncommon in male cats but can be effectively treated if recognized and addressed in time.
Why It’s Dangerous When a Cat Goes to the Bathroom More Often
Is your cat suddenly going to the litter box more often than usual? Does it stay there longer, produce little urine, or even yowl while doing so? Then, caution is advised! Many owners dismiss this behavior as a “quirk” or a harmless bladder infection, but it can be the first sign of an impending urethral blockage. If urination ceases, urine backs up into the bladder and eventually into the kidneys, with potentially fatal consequences.
How Does a Urethral Blockage Occur?
The causes are varied: In most cases, the blockage is caused by urinary stones, so-called urinary grit, or mucus plugs that lodge in the urethra. In some cats, an idiopathic bladder inflammation (FLUTD) is the trigger—an inflammation without a recognizable cause, often stress-related. This can lead to spasms or swelling of the urethra. Anatomical peculiarities, infections, tumors, or scar tissue from previous illnesses can also obstruct urine flow.1
Why Male Cats Are Especially at Risk for Urethral Blockage
Male cats are significantly more affected than females due to anatomical reasons. The male urethra is longer and narrower, especially at the tip of the penis. Even the smallest deposits can block urine flow. Neutered indoor male cats who are overweight, drink little, and are fed only dry food are particularly at risk. This combination promotes the formation of concentrated urine—an ideal breeding ground for crystals and stones.
When Should You See a Veterinarian?
The answer is clear: immediately, if there is suspicion of a blockage! Typical warning signs include:
- Frequent but unsuccessful trips to the litter box
- Loud meowing or crying when trying to urinate
- Arched back, restlessness, or apathy
- Excessive licking of the penis (in male cats)
- Pain face, loss of appetite, vomiting
In advanced stages, a condition known as uremia, a urine poisoning, can occur, leading to heart arrhythmias and, in the worst case, bladder rupture. It is an acute emergency that allows no waiting time.
How Is a Urethral Blockage Treated?
The goal of treatment is to remove the blockage as quickly as possible and restore urine flow: 2, 3
- Sedation and catheterization: A urinary catheter is used to carefully flush through or back the blockage.
- Bladder puncture: In cases of acute overfilling, the bladder is directly punctured to immediately relieve pressure.
- Infusion therapy: It balances electrolyte disturbances and supports kidney function.
- Painkillers and antibiotics are used as needed.
- Surgery: In cases of recurring blockages or severe cases, a procedure called urethrostomy may be necessary. This usually involves removing the cat’s penis and creating a new urethral opening.4
Urethral Blockage Can Lead to Death Within 24–72 Hours
A urethral blockage can—if untreated—lead to death within 24–72 hours. Therefore, it’s important not to ignore a cat that uses the litter box more frequently than usual or assume the problem will resolve itself. Even with successful treatment, there is a risk of recurrence: 5
- Recurring blockages (recurrences) are common
- Urethral narrowing due to scar tissue
- Chronic bladder infections or kidney failure
- Psychological stress from repeated interventions
In cases of frequent recurrence, a penile amputation (urethrostomy) is sometimes considered—initially alarming for many owners, but often life-saving and associated with a good quality of life for the animal.
How to Reduce the Risk of a Urethral Blockage
Prevention is key! These measures significantly reduce the risk:
- Increase fluid intake: Wet food instead of dry food, water fountains, and multiple water bowls in the home. More tips on how to get your cat to drink more can be found in this article.
- Optimize the litter box situation: One litter box per cat in the household, plus an extra one. Cleanliness is a must!
- Avoid obesity: Exercise, engagement, and controlled feeding help.
- Reduce stress: Stable routines, quiet retreats, and no territorial fights in multi-cat households.
- Special diet food: For at-risk cats or after a resolved blockage, a vet-recommended diet helps prevent new crystal formation.
- Regular vet check-ups: Urine tests, early detection of inflammation or relapses.
Why Struvite Stones Are Dangerous for Cats and How to Treat Them
Anxious Cats May Suffer More Frequently from Bladder Infections
Feed Cats Only Twice a Day? Why This Harms Their Health
Conclusion: Never Ignore a Cat That Goes to the Litter Box More Often
If you notice your cat going to the litter box more often than usual, you should monitor this and check the litter box for contents. If there is little or no urine, even though the cat has been there several times, you should go to the vet immediately. A blocked urethra is a gradual but highly dangerous emergency. The sooner action is taken, the better the prognosis.
About the Author
Dr. Saskia Schneider is a biologist with a Ph.D. During her studies at the Free University of Berlin, she focused on zoology and animal behavior. In addition to training as an editor, she completed training as a behavior consultant with a focus on cats.